Steve Allen
Steve Allen
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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The full name of this American comedian, actor, musician, writer, and activist is Stephen Valentine Byrle Allen. He was commonly known as Steve Allen.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born: May 26, 1921, in New York City, New York, USA
Died: October 30, 2000, in Encino, California, USA
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Nationality: American
Profession(s): Comedian, actor, musician, writer, and activist.
Early Life and Background
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Steve Allen was born into a family of modest means. His father, Stephen Byrle Allen, was an insurance salesman, while his mother, Louise (née Morris), was a homemaker. Growing up in New York City, Allen developed a passion for music and comedy at an early age.
As a child prodigy, he began performing on the radio when just 10 years old. He went on to study piano and composition at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). However, his true calling was in show business.
Major Accomplishments
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Allen's breakthrough came with the creation of _The Tonight Show_, which he hosted from 1954 to 1957. This pioneering late-night talk show paved the way for future hosts like Johnny Carson and Jay Leno.
He also made significant contributions to American television as a writer, composer, and actor. Allen wrote over 30 books on various subjects, including humor, philosophy, and social issues. His most famous work is arguably _The Steve Allen Show_, which he created in the late 1950s.
Notable Works or Actions
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Some of his notable works include:
Music: Allen was a skilled pianist and composer. He released several albums featuring his original compositions.
Writing: In addition to his books, Allen wrote numerous articles for publications like _The Saturday Evening Post_ and _McCall's_.
* Activism: Steve Allen was an outspoken advocate for various social causes, including nuclear disarmament and animal rights.
Impact and Legacy
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Allen's influence on American entertainment is immeasurable. He helped shape the late-night talk show format and inspired generations of comedians and writers. His work as a writer, composer, and performer continues to be celebrated by audiences around the world.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Steve Allen's quotes and writings continue to resonate with people today due to their insight into human nature and society. His witty observations on life, love, and politics offer a unique perspective on the world. As a pioneer in the entertainment industry, he paved the way for future generations of comedians, writers, and actors.
Allen's legacy extends beyond his professional achievements. He remains an inspiration to anyone who has ever dared to think outside the box or challenge the status quo. His commitment to social justice and his unwavering dedication to his craft have left an indelible mark on American culture.
Quotes by Steve Allen
There used to be an art form called the 'comedy of manners.' Why aren't comedies of manners made now in this country? The answer is simple. We no longer have manners to speak of.
I was in sixth grade the first time I was required to speak in front of an audience. I had terrible stage fright and felt quite ill, in fact, by the time I had to give my little talk to students in another class across the hall.
What people will - or will not - laugh at is mainly determined by their social conditioning.
Many comedians and comedy writers have shared the childhood experience of learning to joke to protect themselves from neighborhood bullies when challenge or physical defense were not among the sensible options.
We will take almost any kind of criticism except the observation that we have no sense of humor.
To the extent that there is anything properly identifiable as dignity in our society today, our present writers of comedy would be inclined to treat it as a proper object of ridicule.
It often seems that, for whatever strange reasons, comedians, in addition to their formal performances, have more comic experiences in real life than other people do.
Do I ever get questions that are rude or impertinent? Yes, but I love to use them. The audience immediately perceives the emotional awkwardness of the situation.
Pretend you're a southern sheriff. Or Mae West. Or Donald Duck. Buy a western hat and walk around the house like a cowboy. The point of all this, of course, is to draw yourself out of your accustomed groove.
In those of us who have the mysterious ability to amuse others, it is usually the case that even before we were aware of our own abilities, we had become practiced at laughing more than other children in our social circle.